Remembering

November 10, 2023 (Veterans Day)

The Los Angeles Times notice in April of 1969 was brief:  "A California national guardsman was killed and nine other persons injured when a troop transport truck overturned on Interstate 15 near Barstow.  Sp. 5 Gilbert Roy Greenfield...Los Angeles, died when pinned beneath the vehicle.  Highway patrolmen said it overturned when the driver apparently dozed at the wheel.  Four other guardsmen were injured."  

Gilbert, the national guardsman killed, was my cousin and my friend.  Born just a few months apart, we played together as children and as teens became pals.  He would drive to my home, and we would go to a nearby beach for the day.  One evening, we left a family gathering that was ending, drove from Los Angeles to Palm Springs, California, had dessert at a restaurant and drove back.  In adulthood, Gilbert went to college, got married and kept a full-time job, but he also chose to be a Reservist.  His death was a shock to our family, and I don't believe my aunt ever recovered. 

According to Wikipedia, "The National Guard is a state-based military force that becomes part of the reserve components of the United States Army and the United States Air Force when activated for federal missions."   So I dedicate this post to all who have served in the National Guard and other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.  Thank you for your dedication, your service, and in the case of far too many, including Gilbert, your life.

For more information, go to: https://www.nationalguard.mil/